In the springtime 'suckering' (shoot breaking) was done for the first time on the farm, thus decreasing the yield and increasing the quality of the wine. A month of intensive green harvesting was also done – contributing to the targeted increase in quality.

Minimal irrigation was also implemented throughout the growth season and was only given once at 'veraison' (when the berries change colour). In general the grapes were in an outstanding condition, yielding at six tons a hectare with no rot.

All the above-mentioned will hopefully contribute to the increase in quality of the 2005 vintage.

The Cellar

A large investment was made in the cellar by acquiring a brand new bag press, two small volume open-fermenters and a move to small new French oak barrels (225l).

This has allowed small batch, whole berry fermentation with no pumping of the grapes. Neil Hawkins, our new winemaker, has been given free reign in the cellar, allowing him to isolate specific blocks and he is paying specific attention to detail.

A Frenchman from Sancerre, Anthony Girard, is currently working at Hoopenburg for four months gaining international experience. He has contributed in many ways to the cosmopolitan vibe we enjoy at Hoopenburg – a great attribute!

The Marketing Side

We are looking at extending our International Portfolio. On the local side we have the following exciting news - Hoopenburg Wines decided to start with a partnership with Wines and the Art of our surrounding areas. On the 7th April at 19:30 the first Exhibition will be held at our tasting room with the paintings of Jan Wolmerans. This promise to be the first of many exhibitions till January 2006.

Our very first 500ml Sauvignon Blanc 2004 will be launched at specific restaurants in the Cape Peninsula towards the end of March. This promotion will continue untill end of May this year.

We will also have a 750ml Promotion on Chardonnay 2004 and Merlot 2001 soon on a national basis – the Objective will be to increase awareness of our wines and to highlight quality wines at affordable prices!

General

Neil is very optimistic that the hard work that the Hoopenburg team put into the 2005 vintage will show itself soon. More exciting news is that Hoopenburg will be bringing out a new white wine – An unwooded Chardonnay – Pinot-Noir blend!